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1. When is a building (zoning) permit needed?

Any construction in rural Clay County requires a building (zoning) permit. Including:

• Additions
• Garages
• Outbuildings
• Sheds

A permit must be issued before any construction can begin. A Building Permit Application can be printed at home or picked up at the:

The Planning Office

3510 12th Avenue South

Moorhead, MN 56560

After an applicant or contractor completes an application, it must be presented to the township for their approval. Some township officers will just sign them independently, but some townships require the applicant to come to a township meeting. After that, the application must be returned to the Planning Office, with payment, to receive final approval.

2. Do you issue building permits for the cities in Clay County?

No. The building permits for the cities within Clay County are issued through the city halls.

3. How long does it take to get a building permit?

After a completed building permit application is returned to the Planning Office with a township signature and payment, an applicant should allow 7-10 days for the permit to be processed.

4. What is the fee for a building permit?

There is a base fee of $25, plus $1 per $1,000 of the value of the structure / addition.

For example, the fee for a $200,000 house would be $225.

5. How is the land in Clay County zoned?

Learn more about Clay County zoning here.

6. How do I find out if property is located in the flood plain?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are available on the Clay County website. The Planning and Zoning staff can assist with looking up flood zones for specific parcels on the maps, they can be reached by telephone at 218-299-5005 or by email.

7. How do I identify / contact my Fire District?

Use the "Find My Fire District Tool" to identify your Fire District and obtain contact information. Find My Fire District Tool